At verse 2 the churchs responsibility toward all people comes into view. The tradition seems to have influenced Paul here to connect this responsibility and the responsibility to the state (compare 1 Pet 2:13, 17). Essentially, the instructions advise the Cretan Christians to make as few waves as possible by living in a way that fosters good relations. In the area of speech, Christians are not to be known as those who slander others. Rather, in speech and conduct (that is, in the totality of life; see discussion at 1 Tim 4:12) they are to be known for peaceableness, gentleness (NIV considerate) and meekness (humility) toward all people. Misunderstanding these qualities leads to what has been called doormat Christianity. But in reality they have nothing to do with passivity. Peaceableness is a conscious mode of response that allows one to resist taking a violent course in difficult situations, often sacrificially, in order to save relationships. Gentleness (or consideration) is an attitude that quiets personal concerns to make room for the concerns of others. And meekness (humility) is that balanced perception of oneself that makes it possible to regard others as more important (compare Phil 2:3-4). In fact, the last two qualities describe Christlikeness, the basic disposition of Christ toward others (2 Cor 10:1; compare 1 Tim 3:3; 2 Tim 2:25). Pauls language portrays Christian living in relation to all people as reasoned forbearance in every aspect of life, the putting of the concerns of others ahead of ones own.
Posted on: Wed, 13 Nov 2013 13:31:36 +0000
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